A coalition of 254 groups is urging Congress to reject any federal appropriations bill that contains inappropriate and “ideological” policy riders. These riders, which were wildly popular during the last budget cycle, would jeopardize policies that restrain Wall Street abuses and would weaken new legislation intended to protect American families and their retirement savings. These policy riders are little more than special favors and sweetheart deals for big corporations and ideological extremists and have no place in the appropriations process.

At the end of last year, Congress wisely rejected multiple efforts to use the budget process to force through unrelated ideological riders, including changes in financial regulation that would undermine consumer protections, endanger financial security, or reduce accountability for big banks. It is vitally important that members remain committed to opposing such riders again this year.

The coalition strongly urges Congress to oppose any flawed funding proposals that undermine the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Dodd-Frank Act, the Department of Labor’s conflict-of-interest rule, or other financial reform and accountability legislation or regulations. These riders are unpopular and controversial with voters in both parties. By sneaking them into must-pass budget legislation, lawmakers are trying to avoid a real debate and showing that Congress isn’t looking out for regular Americans.